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I am learning video poker and I just got the Wizard of Odds' "Video Poker Wizard" app for my iPad. In addition to being a teaching tool, it has an additional, very useful feature. It allows you to plug in a specific hand in a video poker game, like Deuce’s Wild, and it will tell the best play(s) for that hand. While I think I know about 90-95% of the correct holds, there are times when I am unsure. Can I use this app when I am at the video poker machine? Logically, it seems like I could, since it is similar to having a strategy card at a blackjack table, but logic may not have anything to do with casino regulations.
Logic does, but technology has even more relevance.
We've got bad news for you. Use of the Video Poker Wizard could not only get you 86'd from the casino, it might get you into trouble with the Nevada Gaming Control Board. The NGCB's in-house analyst, Michael Lawton, dug up the relevant Nevada Revised Statute:
NRS 465.075 Use or possession of device, software or hardware to obtain advantage at playing game prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to use, possess with the intent to use or assist another person in using or possessing with the intent to use any computerized, electronic, electrical or mechanical device, or any software or hardware, or any combination thereof, which is designed, constructed, altered or programmed to obtain an advantage at playing any game in a licensed gaming establishment or any game that is offered by a licensee or affiliate, including, without limitation, a device that:
1. Projects the outcome of the game;
2. Keeps track of cards played or cards prepared for play in the game;
3. Analyzes the probability of the occurrence of an event relating to the game; or
4. Analyzes the strategy for playing or betting to be used in the game,
Blackjack strategy cards, being simple ink-and-paper assists, obviously don't fall under the rubric of the law. By all means, study up on VP strategy at home … but leave the iPad behind when you come to the casino.